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Recommend a Geelong mechanic??

Posted: Sat May 19, 2007 9:52 pm
by plasnart
G'day all!

Recently had my 4.2 TD GUII serviced at what I thought would be a reputable 4x4 workshop in Geelong (Fyans St down opposite VicRoads) but ended up VERY VERY VERY upset with them.

I generally do oil change at 5k intervals myself then have a workshop do the extended servicing at the 10k intervals.

Have you ever heard of a good workshop only replacing one oil filter and leaving one of the old ones in there?? What about no details on receipt of what work was undertaken? I've got no proof they did anything but change a couple of filters (one oil, one fuel). Or what about asking for $580 when they quoted me $390?? Don't worry, I had it out with the manager and only paid the quoted price. As I was having it out with the manager, 2 other blokes came in complaining about work that had been done to their vehicles from that workshop. Seems like it might be a regular occurrence!! Could go on for ages but won't bore you.

Anyway, does anybody know a GOOD diesel mechanic in Geelong (or nearby anyway) for my GU, because I am NEVER going back to these guys. Would love to find one I could trust.

I don't mind paying for good service. All that I ask is that the mechanic gives me good work and I'll pay them good money. I'm not after the cheapest quote, I'm after the good mechanic and will pay accordingly.

Thanks for any leads.

Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 9:21 am
by chpd 80
Try K'Js Offroad Center on Fyans st. up towards toyota.
Ask for Chris.
Or Rally Motors opposite Nissan (just over the bridge)
ask for Daniel (ruffy here on outers).
Both these guys just competed in the outback
challenge so they know a thing or two about forbies.

Cheers kent.

Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 10:21 am
by beretta
I second what chpd80 said above. I know Kris at KJ's and Daniel at Rally Motors pretty well through the competition scene and they are excellent operators.

We took my dads GU to KJ's to get the turbo upgrade done and the old fella was absolutely wrapped with the result and the workmanship, he has taken his car there on numerous other occasions and has always been happy.

The boys are both home from the Outback Challenge too so will be in their work shops Monday.

Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 10:50 am
by plasnart
Thanks fellas.

Posted: Sun May 20, 2007 7:41 pm
by tj81
I cant say ive heard anything like what you have experienced at Geelong 4 Wheel Drive Centre. Thats rather unfortunate, and dissappointing.

As been mentioned, Chris Richter is a member of the 4 Wheel Drive club that i am a member of, and he will certainly not rip you off, so consider KJ's.

Other option includes PBN Automotive, local owned and operated family business, not 4 Wheel Drive specific but is experienced with them.

Hope you find some satisfaction..

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 7:19 am
by ats4x4dotcom
unfortunate, and some dont want "comp" expertise, when they have a tourer either.

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 8:37 am
by plasnart
Thanks tj81. There seems to be a pattern happening here with KJ's being nominated so often. Will give them a call next time I need a service (the car, not me!!)

ats4x4, was going to call you too next time so will be in touch.

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 9:39 am
by Ruffy
Thanks for the recommendations guys.

Plasnart, Chris at KJ's will look after all your needs from comp to touring to toorack tractor.. He has a wealth of knowledge based on experience not brochures.
Cheers, Dan.

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 12:24 pm
by BrettInUte
I too have had a LOT of trouble with the
"4x4 workshop in Geelong (Fyans St down opposite VicRoads) "
after spending nearly $3000 on new suspension - it wouldnt pass a roadworthy 3 months after fitting. There was a heap of dodgey business going on under the car - they guys in there fitting it all knew about it - but didnt say a word - took the money happily - and were NOT going to come to the party with any money back or repairs.
Very dissappointing.


but I can recommend
* K'Js Offroad Center on Fyans st
* ATS 4x4

and for performance motor/tuning - try Daltons (round the corner from Vicroads) - they have done some fantastic work on several offroad 2wd buggies I know of.

Cheers.

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 5:33 pm
by plasnart
I tell you what, I'm kicking myself for not asking you guys BEFORE I went where I did instead of after. Geez they are dodgy plus!!! :twisted:

Thanks for all the info being forwarded. There are a few standout nominations being put forward so will be in touch with them no doubt!!

You guys are legends! :lol:

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 9:15 pm
by GQ4.8coilcab
ATS did a really professional job on a 100 series IFS lift i saw ;)

Posted: Mon May 21, 2007 9:45 pm
by beretta
My dad had a second battery tray fitted to his GU by the previously mentioned business, they didn't put any washers etc on the head of the bolts behind the guard and the tray ripped out of the guard in a matter of weeks, on city streets only! The old fella reinforced it and refitted it and it still in their holding strong. I certainly wouldn't go there myself.

Posted: Tue May 22, 2007 8:41 am
by Ruffy
Guys, We're all human and make mistakes. Let's not turn this into a bagging session. Geelong is a small town and most of us are friends outside of the daily grind.
Some GOOD recommendations have been made in good faith so instead of poo poo'ing lets hoorah the good guys.
Cheers Dan